Marshfield drama performs ‘The Crucible’

MARSHFIELD — The Marshfield High School Drama Club will perform “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller, a play centered around the Salem Witch Trials, on Friday, Nov. 11, and Saturday, Nov. 12.

“The Crucible” is set in 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts, after a group of young girls claim to have been bewitched by people in the community. The play itself is based on historic fact, but parts of the show — such as the ages of the girls — are altered for dramatic purposes.

“The theme in this play is that … one person will accuse someone of being a witch, and everybody is already on board before they can go back and ask that person what’s actually going on,” explained junior Tyler Nanstad.

“The Crucible” gives the audience a chance to reflect on society in terms of persecution without evidence and justice.

“(‘The Crucible’ was written because) in Arthur Miller’s time, there were a lot of ‘witch hunts’ for communists. What he wanted to do was compare the witch trials back then, that in his time they would really see as barbaric, and say that it’s really no different now,” said Nanstad. “I think it will give people a lot to consider.”

The cast and crew have been working since September to put the play together.

“We’ve put a lot of effort into this amazing show. It’s a bit darker, and it’s recommended for ages 11 and up. There’s nothing that is shown visually, but (things are alluded to),” explained senior Maisie Cramer.

Sophomore Maizy Jepsen added, “Look forward to the really talented (cast members). They’re really great actors, and they make everything very believable.”

Tickets for “The Crucible” are available for purchase online at showtix4u.com, in the high school main office, and at the door the day of the show. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors 55 and up with valid identification. The doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.